Best Equestrian Camping near Dubuque, IA
The Dyrt can help you find the perfect horse camping site near Dubuque. Camping with your horse in Dubuque just got easier. These scenic and easy-to-reach Dubuque campsites are perfect for equestrian campers.
Best Equestrian Sites Near Dubuque, IA (9)
1. Wyalusing State Park Campground
McGregor, Iowa57 Reviews•255 Photos•329 SavesLocated on a high bluff overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers, a land of sculpted limestone and prehistoric Native American mounds can be found amid a swath of preserved hardwood forest. Translated “home of the warrior” in the language of the local Munsee–Delaware Indians, Wyalusing Hardwood Forest and the Wyalusing Mounds have received recognition as national natural landmarks and historic places. Adjacent to the forest, Wyalusing State Park is the perfect camping destination for a little outdoors R&R, while discovering more about the natural and cultural history at the junction of Wisconsin’s and America’s greatest waterways.
Visitors to Wyalusing State Park have two campgrounds to choose from. Wisconsin Ridge is set on a high bluff over the Wisconsin River, and Homestead is located in shady hardwood forest. Combined, they offer 109 campsites for tent and RV campers; there is also a large group campground. Both campgrounds provide flush and vault restrooms, shower facilities and drinking water. A portion of sites in each campground have electrical hookups for RVs, and there is a dump station near the Homestead site. The park also has several picnic areas, sports courts, and five reservable group picnic shelters. Firewood, camping supplies, ice and boat rentals are available at the concession stand. Seasonal campsite rates range from $15–$35/night; entrance to the park requires an additional fee.
With nearly 24 miles of land and water trails in Wyalusing State Park, you’ll find ample opportunities for exploring riverside bluffs. Whether you like to walk, hike, ride, or paddle, there’s a trail just for you. Take an easy interpretive walk to learn about the park’s flora, fauna and geology; hike to see limestone caves, waterfalls, and a great view of the river; hop on your bike for a ride around the edge of a wooded grassland; or board a canoe or kayak and paddle through the Mississippi backwaters. Many of these trails are also open during the winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Other park activities include fishing, bird watching, and seasonal hunting.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$15 - $35 / night
2. Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Blanchardville, Wisconsin31 Reviews•96 Photos•109 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
3. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Dundee, Iowa29 Reviews•114 Photos•108 SavesLocated about an hour’s drive north of Cedar Rapids, Backbone State Park is Iowa’s oldest state park. Established in 1920, it was named for a narrow limestone ridge—the Devil’s Backbone—along the Maquoketa River. At its founding, it was one of the largest state parks in the U.S. to offer camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities. Since that time, the park has expanded to 2,100 acres—almost double its original size—and offers even more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outdoors and enjoy some time in nature. Whether it’s wandering the woods, fishing on a quiet creek, lounging by the lake, or just napping in shade under a swinging hammock, there’s something for everyone here.
The two campgrounds at Backbone State Park offers 125 campsites for tent and RV campers. The large South Lake Campground has nearly 100 sites, about half with electrical hookups, with flush toilets and showers. The smaller Six Pines Campground has 27 primitive tent sites with vault toilets. Most sites are open and grassy, but there are plenty of shade trees around. Both locations have drinking water faucets and trash receptacles; a dump station is located at the South Lake Campground. The park also offers a few 1- and 2-bedroom cabins for those visiting sans tent or RV; bedding not provided. Many sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A small store in the park sells bait, firewood and some concessions. Reservations are accepted, but some sites are held open for first-come, first-served campers. Seasonal campsite rates range from $6–$16/night; cabins range from $50–$100/night.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy at Backbone State Park. The park features several playgrounds, picnic areas, an outdoor auditorium, and a museum. More than 21 miles of multiuse trails explore the woods and waterways within the park. Taking a hike or ride is the best way to see some of the park’s natural rock features, including the Stone Arch, Balance Rock, and the Devil’s Backbone. In winter, many of these trails are open for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Swimming, paddling and boating can be enjoyed on Backbone Lake, with kayak and canoe rentals available from the park, and angers can fish for trout on the creek out of Richmond Springs. And rock climbers will find several challenging routes on the park’s many limestone cliffs.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
4. Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Dodgeville, Wisconsin28 Reviews•144 Photos•105 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
5. Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Dodgeville, Wisconsin19 Reviews•59 Photos•60 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
Lena, Illinois9 Reviews•25 Photos•20 SavesWhether you visit for an afternoon or stay a few days, you will leave Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area with many happy memories. Located in Stephenson County just west of Route 73 on Lake Road, the park is 6 miles south of the Illinois-Wisconsin state line and 3 miles north of Lena.
Highlighted by a 40-acre lake and all the recreational opportunities there, the park also offers multi-use trails, picnic areas, and RV, tent, equestrian and youth group campgrounds.
Developed as part of a statewide plan to provide Illinois citizens with recreational opportunities close to home, the park was started with a land acquisition program in 1948 and dedicated as a 715-acre state recreation area 10 years later.
Lake Le-Aqua-Na’s name is the result of a contest sponsored by the Stephenson County Sportsman’s Club, one of the park’s many sponsors. The name is a combination of the town of Lena and the Latin word for water, aqua.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$10 - $30 / night
7. Matsell Bridge Natural Area
Anamosa, Iowa3 Reviews•2 Photos•18 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
8. Wakpicada Natural Area
Central City, Iowa1 Review•12 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Trash
9. Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Be the first to review!Dodgeville, WisconsinThe equestrian campground at Governor Dodge State Park has 20 campsites, 18 with electric hook-ups. Each campsite includes a high-line hitching post with cable, and has a picnic table and fire ring. Drinking water, vault toilets, a horse washing station and manure bunkers are provided. Campers can use the shower building located in the Hickory Ridge group camp area. The equestrian campground is open from May 1 through Nov. 15.
The equestrian campground is located in the Hickory Ridge area of Governor Dodge State Park. The campground has easy access to the park's 22 miles of equestrian trails - including both the interior horse trail system and the 15-mile Driftless Horse Trail.
Campers must have a horse to camp at this site. Total driveway length 95'. Hunting occurs in the park along trails from Oct thru Dec and again in April.
- Pets
- Fires
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
Recent Equestrian Reviews in Dubuque
178 Reviews of 9 Dubuque Campgrounds
Connor M.
Guide
Wyalusing State Park Campground
Nice views, good hiking, cool rocks
Took my 5 year old son camping here in early April of 2024 and it was fun. We were at site #125 which has fantastic views of the river and surrounding area's, but the wind is stronger at this spot because it's open. The entire campground is situated on top of a bluff so this compounded our wind issue. I also need to note that the majority of these campgrounds don't have much privacy or lack it entirely. This site was very open and I would opt for a little more tree coverage in the future.
There's some really nice trails and cool rock formations, couple this with the playground and nice bathrooms it makes for an ideal campground for families with younger children. Just keep in mind that it's on a bluff so there are some steep drop-off points that children could take a pretty nasty fall from. Cellphone coverage wasn't a problem either.
It was a Colder night as we camped in 30 degree weather and freezing rain came into our campground. This along with the wind made our situation feel pretty cold and we left early in April. We would stay here again but probably opt for a slightly more warm month. Over-all it's a good campground for the area.
On a side note, I bet this place looks tremendous in the fall with the changing colors.
James M.
Legend
Jackson County Iowa Fairgrounds
Small County fairground cg
Offers basics: water, electric, showers some shade, stores nearby
- JJohn B.
TravelerWyalusing State Park Campground
Nice Park
Nice sites, trails and facilities. Stayed during the week in mid September. Beautiful sites overlooking the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. Great hiking with clean bathrooms and toilets. Private with plenty of room from neighbors for our teardrop.
Sarah B.Guide
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Def do not recommend for summer 2024!
I wanted so badly to love this campground experience, but just didn't. Site 19 was an easy walk-in that theoretically had nearby vault toilets, parking, and water.
Each site only had space for one car to park before walking in. Not a huge deal, but annoying as there were 2 of us who drove separate and we had to problem solve. When we got to the site I was shocked to see that what was labeled as a tent site had literally NO flat space to actually set up a tent. Spacious site, but fully sloped.
Also, what I would have loved to know, is that the vault toilets are closed because they are doing construction to build something new in that space. Construction that starts loudly each day at 7am. Honestly every site from about #35 down was affected by the noise because the construction is happening in the middle of the loop (and actually blocking some of the one-way road as well).
The park in general was okay. Per the usual, the pet areas were lacking. No beach at all, just grass covered in goose poop and one cut out on the raised shore between tall grasses and foliage where a dog could potentially jump in. Certainly nowhere for a human to enjoy the water with their pups unfortunately.
Brent B.GuideWyalusing State Park Campground
Views
Lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets. Great hiking trails,overall a great play to stay.
loren S.GuideWyalusing State Park Campground
Best views, great hiking, kayaking
Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi. Outside camp sites off gorgeous views of valley below.
Brian O.LegendYellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Nice alternative to Gov. Dodge or Devil's Lake (No rocks or vews though)
This is a very large state park located halfway between Mineral Point and New Glarus, both nice visiting destinations in their own right.
It has a large lake with three boat launches, a main one with a motor ramp, a canoe launch near the marshy end, and a fishing pier. There's also a boat rental place run by the nearby Cork Down Saloon. There are no boat-in or lake accessible campsites however.
The campground is up a long 30 degree hill across from the main launch and Beach/ main picnic area. The sites are more secluded from each other than you'll find at most parks , which is very nice. Beware that some sites are so secluded that they are bi-level. That is, parking pad and then step(s) down to the site. Be sure to check the photos provided when reserving. There are very nice walk-in sites, but no carts are provided.
the facilities are clean, but there's only one building with running water and showers. Water throughout has a mild iron taste.
There's no playground in the camp area, it's located in a picnic area near the canoe launch that you pass as you com in. Not walking distance, remember the big hill.
There's an Ice Cream/concession at the east end of the lake with limited hours. Beyond that is the Cork Down Saloon, just outside the secondary entrance to the park. It's your closest option to eat out. Also there is the private Chalet campground (see others for a review) Neither has a view of the lake as they are below the Dam.
A fun place to visit in the area is the Toy Train Barn Museum in Argyle, indoors if you have a rainy day.
Pat F.Guide
Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Hidden treasure
Stayed in march it was cold but very nice park , restrooms were nice shower house was closed and locked but the scenery on the hiking trail was amazing
Mike K.
Scout
Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Rangers to not enforce the park rules!
wonderful park! Only problem is the park does not enforce their rules. Several sites had 3 to 4 cars/ trucks and as many as 15 people per site. And these were not the double sites which allow greater numbers. This was observered on single sites. Rules say max of 6 people and 2 cars. This creates very loud partying late at night. I asked at the ranger station about the rules and discussed what I saw what I experienced. Pretty much just blew me off! Reserving only one site and packing as many people as they can get away with does not create a very family friendly camping experience. Only leads to trouble. No Rangers in the Park after 8pm which to me is a safety issue! After 8pm the local police in Dodgeville take over. We were there 5 nights and only saw the police roll through 1 night! Too bad. Such a nice Park is going down hill!
- Jeannie D.Guide
Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Just stunning
This campground was large. The lake reminded me of a puzzle I did with my grandma as a kid. It was fall, and it was just gorgeous. There was a wedding the weekend we were there, but we were lucky to explore the tower the day prior. The nearby communities offer ameneties, which were needed as I sprained a knee hiking the backbone trail my third go. Absolutely adored the weekend we spent here. Wonderful neighbors, great spacious, level sites. I want to say we had electric only, and service was definitely spotty in most areas of camp. We used Verizon, and could not hulu.
Stacey N.
RangerWyalusing State Park Campground
Amazing.
Fantastic site… what a view. Good firewood… but the place right at the entrance is fantastic…. Offering both hardwood and pine. The only drawback is a lack of staffing… not really surprising. Bathrooms not cleaned as often as other places, but, not a dealbreaker.
Tiffany K.GuideYellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Family Camping near Lake
This campground offers sites with electricity for RVs but some of the sites seem pretty narrow to use RV awnings. We booked an RV site but decided to camp. The site had a picnic table and fire ring but since it was an RV spot not a lot of good tent placement options. There are numerous pit toilets to use. The park has hiking trails that are accessible from the campground. The lake has a walking trail, kayak ramps and boat ramps.
Chelsie W.Traveler
Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Lovely Gov’ Dodge
We love to go kayaking here, the lakes are lovely. There are also lots of trails to explore. It can get busy, especially during the summer holidays. The beaches tend to be where the people are most dense. The campgrounds are pretty large but most sites offer good privacy. We stayed at Cox Hollow campground and enjoyed our stay. The stars were glorious. P.S. Bob’s Bitchin BBQ in Dodgeville is banging if you’re looking for a yum treat.
Dana K.GuideWyalusing State Park Campground
Serene
Loved the camping and hiking. Beautiful in the fall
- HHpM R.Guide
Wyalusing State Park Campground
A touch above average
Site layouts a little less private. Great hiking. Duck hunting season must have started at sunrise Oct 1 - sounded like the Civil War started. City lights of PDC visible all night from the site. Trains ran quite a bit but didn't bother us. Oak trees dropped acorns enough to have us reposition the rig for uninterrupted sleep. TMobile strong 5G signal
- Patty M.Guide
Wyalusing State Park Campground
Beautiful campground on the bluffs
Campground sits high up on the bluffs so the views are beautiful. We stayed there in early spring so there wasn't much vegetation growing yet between sites but sites are well-spaced. Great hiking paths up and down the bluffs.
- Alex H.Traveler
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
No Flat Spots
Very nice park. Well marked and maintained trails. A large lake with boat launch and beach area. Separate pet area.
We spent the weekend at site 101, which is a tent site. I wouldn't recommend this site. based on a quick walkaround, it seemed a bit smaller than other sites. That's not really a deal-breaker, but it didn't really have any flat spots to pitch the tent. We ended up pitching it up on the parking area, but it was still a bit slanted and we could feel the tire divot a little through the air mattresses. Aside from that, it was great. The site had a picnic table and fire ring that we used a lot. It was secluded from the surrounding sites.
We hiked the Windy Ridge trail and the Prairie Loop trail. both were well maintained and enjoyable trails. We also spent some time on the beach.
Michael V.RangerWyalusing State Park Campground
Beautiful views of the driftless and river valley below
Stayed here back in 2017, will be going back hopefully soon. Beautiful area! Campground is very nice, with showers and restrooms. Camp sites are far enough away from neighbors that there is some privacy. Need a state park sticker to access. Illinois Minnesota and Iowa are all short drives away. We have also snow shoes here to the ice caves in the winter. Which was fun.
- NNicole K.Guide
Wyalusing State Park Campground
Overall a really nice park!
We stayed in the Homestead Campground. You’re not competing for the views up on the ridge so the camp sites are spaced out more and have a little more privacy. Our site was nicely sized and the facilities were kept quite clean. Wyalusing has fantastic trails and incredible views. I would give it five stars, but our specific campsite was quite close to sites in the next loop and there was a lot of noise from those sites. I agree with other to come prepared for the bugs.
Art S.LegendCox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Loud, party vibe
The campsites here are deep with lots of greenery. However we chose this site thinking that it was on the end. The loops curl around so there were campers around us. On the other side was a playground that had children enjoying it all day. While this is great for some, our reactive dog was quite distracted.
Upon arriving at the check in, there is still a couple miles to wind around until the campground, longer to get to twin lakes campground. The road is hilly too. It’s not a problem in our vehicle but it would be tiring on a bicycle. There are showers in the center of our loop. It could be expanded a bit - we had short lines for the restrooms. Water , garbage and recycling are available as well as a dump station.
It was raining when we arrived but we drove around to see the park. We hiked the short distance to Stephen’s Falls and was not impressed. Maybe they need more rain this year but all we saw was a splatter.
We saw folks who kept their kayaks and canoes locked up by the lake. The beach looked nice too. The other end of the park has an equestrian campground. We did see some horses riding the trail around the park.
The vibe here wasn’t for us. Various sites had music playing loud enough for us to hear. Trails from camp would be great. We ended up walking along the narrow road.
- rrita H.Traveler
Wyalusing State Park Campground
Awesome view
Great site. Great view. Lots of mosquitoes so come prepared. This is a really nice campground.
Kelly M.GuideYellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Love this State Park
Great beach, lots of space with picnic tables. Awesome concession stand- great ice cream. We enjoy this park. Lots of bat houses so the mosquitoes weren't a problem.
Josh G.TravelerSix Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
Great park
Very nice great hiking couldn’t swim on our stay but nice beach canoe rentals small store bathrooms were very clean
Lyla W.GuideWyalusing State Park Campground
Absolutely stunning
Third time here camping at this campground, almost any spot on the bluff over look is good, but if you want a good view, anything really in the 120s or 140s is nice. Stayed at 125 this time, it’s all gravel with little grass, we had a raccoon come within a foot of where we were sitting, he got scared when we turned on the light haha. I get LTE/5G service at the camp ground, I have us cellular. Overall, would definitely come here again.
- SStephGuide
Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground
Great low key park!
Loved this quiet park! Camped at site 62 which is tent only. The site was huge and could easily fit 4 tents. Most sites had good privacy. Bathrooms could use a little work along with signage. However, I will absolutely be going back.
- kkevin M.Traveler
Twin Valley Campground — Governor Dodge State Park
Terrible campsite
Made a reservation on line. $25. Added a conservation fee of $7. Taxes added to that. Pulled in on my motorcycles with my son and they charged us an additional $22 vehicle charge. This site cost us almost $60 for one night and the place was filthy. There were worms crawling around in the men’s urinal. The bathrooms were disgusting and there were signs all over complaining about how short staffed they were. Never go to this campground.
- Art S.Legend
Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area
Camping with plenty of area to explore
This was an unexpected good find in Illinois. The campground was nice with the standard set up - picnic tables, restrooms, water available. You can follow the road or the trails and make your way to the lake. We didn't go in the lake but we saw people fishing.
The hiking trails were enjoyed often by us. We found one section that had some interesting wildflowers. We paused and turned around when we found the archery area. We suggest keeping an eye on hunting season if you head this way.
We would certainly return in the future.
Guide to Dubuque
Horse camping in Iowa offers a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With several well-reviewed spots, you can find the perfect place to set up camp and ride the trails.
Campers appreciate these amenities for horses
- At Governor Dodge State Park Equestrian Campground, you'll find designated areas for horse camping, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.
- Backbone State Park features spacious sites with easy access to trails, making it a great choice for equestrian enthusiasts.
- Matsell Bridge Natural Area allows for horse camping alongside beautiful river views, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Tips for equestrian camping near Dubuque, Iowa
- When visiting Wakpicada Natural Area, be sure to bring plenty of water for your horse, as amenities are limited.
- At Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park, check trail conditions before heading out, as some paths may be more suitable for horses than others.
- Make use of the picnic tables and fire pits at Cox Hollow Campground — Governor Dodge State Park to create a comfortable camping experience for you and your horse.
Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and water access
- Yellowstone Lake State Park Campground offers well-maintained trails that are perfect for horseback riding, along with water access for your horse.
- At Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area, you can enjoy scenic rides along the lake, with ample space for your horse to roam.
- Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides a peaceful setting with trails that are ideal for both riding and hiking, making it a versatile destination for equestrian campers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Dubuque, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Dubuque, IA is Wyalusing State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 57 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Dubuque, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 equestrian camping locations near Dubuque, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.